judging bulls

sniper14 · Jul 25, 2015

So I was hoping some of you could post pictures of bulls and what their scores might be, so that I can get better at field judging elk. I don't care about the size I would like to try and field judge smaller bulls as well as larger ones. I have looked at all the previous photos in the photo gallery and have filled judge them so I am just looking for a little more practice. Thanks in advance!!!

Twabbis · Jul 25, 2015

I don't have pics with exact scores but the most helpful advice I've ever gotten on judging bulls is the 15 inch rule. Generally from the base of a bulls horn to the tip of his nose is about 15 inches. And if a bull has 15" times all the way around with pretty good mass and width and main beam that will be a 350 bull. I'm still no expert by any means but I usually can get pretty close with keeping that in mind.

JayScottOutdoors · Jul 25, 2015

I just did two podcast episodes on field judging elk. You might find some things that will help you in those episodes. Each episode is about an hour long. It is Episode 50 and 51. I have already gotten several emails from guys saying how much it has helped them. The podcast is 100% free. See the link in my signature line.

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sniper14 · Jul 25, 2015

That is so cool. Thanks a million!!

destroyer350 · Jul 25, 2015

best way to judge is to knock at least 15 inches off of what you think he scores & when you walk up to him when he's down there is no ground shrinkage.

RPAJSR · Jul 26, 2015

Knocking off 5-10% helps my accuracy a lot. Great elk scoring videos by Jay Scott IMO.

cmbbulldog · Jul 26, 2015

200 rule is a good one to start with.

On a mature bull, you can assume the main beams, width, and mass equal about 200 inches. Then just worry about the tine length. Adjust for any abnormalities.

Side view of the fronts compared to nose is a good indicator of the fronts.

When a bull has his head down feeding, does the top of his rack get to the top of his back? Good indication on main beam length.